RESEARCH ON BULLYING AND RELATIONSHIPS IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS

This research examines the prevalence, forms, and dynamics of bullying among secondary school students in Azerbaijan. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 180 students from Grades 5–11 to explore interpersonal relationships, exposure to different types of bullying, classroom grouping, victimization frequency, and help‑seeking behaviors. Findings show that verbal and relational bullying—mockery, teasing, insults, and social exclusion—were the most frequently reported forms, while physical aggression and cyberbullying occurred less often but remained significant. Approximately 27.2% of students reported experiencing bullying at least sometimes. Help‑seeking patterns revealed that teachers and parents were the most common sources of support, although a notable number of students preferred not to seek help from anyone. The study highlights the importance of whole‑school anti‑bullying frameworks, teacher responsiveness, social–emotional learning (SEL), confidential reporting systems, and strengthened school psychological services to create safe and supportive educational environments.